Pharmacy support and FAQs

Pharmacy support and FAQs

Knowing what your pharmacist and pharmacy can do for you can help you manage your health more effectively.

A couple looking at medicine with a pharmacist.

Your pharmacist is more than the person behind the counter — they’re a knowledgeable partner in your health care. Understanding the services they offer can help you better manage your health. Below are responses to some common questions. 

What questions can I ask my pharmacist?

Think of your pharmacist as your go-to medication expert. You can ask them how and when to take your medicine, what side effects to watch for and what to do if you miss a dose. They can also review all your prescriptions and over-the-counter (OTC) products to make sure everything works safely together. Whenever you’re unsure, your pharmacist is there to help — just ask. 

Why should I use in-network and preferred pharmacies?  

Sticking with in-network pharmacies helps make sure your plan covers your prescriptions — and that you’re getting the best prices available. Some pharmacies are even “preferred,” which could mean extra savings. To find one near you, visit AllinaHealthAetnaMedicare.com/FindPharmacy and enter your ZIP code. 

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Can a pharmacist help me save money?

Yes, your pharmacist can suggest simple ways to lower your medication costs without losing quality care:  

  • This list shows which drugs your plan covers. Ask your provider to prescribe medications from the list.  

  • Generic drugs work just like brand-name ones but often cost much less.

What should I do if I have side effects or allergies?

Not feeling quite right after starting a new medication? Tell your pharmacist or provider right away. They can work together to find a safer or more comfortable option. Keep an up-to-date list of your medications and allergies.  It’s an easy way to help your care team keep you safe.  

How can I make sure I’m taking my medication safely?  

Take your medication as prescribed to get the most benefit from it. When you pick up a prescription, your pharmacist can review the instructions with you and answer any questions about how and when to take it. Many pharmacies also offer helpful tools like pill organizers, easy-open bottles, larger print labels or text and refill reminders to help you stay on track. 

How should I store or get rid of extra medicine?  

Always store medications safely. Keep all medicines away from children and pets. And store them in a cool, dry place. If you have leftover or expired medications, don’t throw them in the trash or flush them. Ask your pharmacist about safe medication take-back programs. Such programs can help prevent misuse and protect the environment. 

Find out if your medicine is covered

Your medicine matters. Allina Health | Aetna plans with prescription drug plans offer tools and guidance to help you find covered medicine and understand your costs. 

Go to AllinaHealthAetnaMedicare.com/Formulary to search for your medication. The formulary will tell you which tier your medicine is in. In general, the lower the tier, the less you pay. Once you know the tier and check the drug search tool, talk to your provider or pharmacist about the best, lowest-cost prescriptions for you.

How can my pharmacist help with spring allergies?  

If you’re sneezing or sniffling, your pharmacist can help you find relief. They can recommend the right over-the-counter allergy medicine and make sure it won’t interfere with your prescriptions. With a little help, you can breathe easier all season long.  

How can my pharmacist support me?  

Whether you visit a CVS® location or another in-network pharmacy, your pharmacist is a trusted partner in your care. They’re ready to help you understand your medications, manage costs and keep your treatment plan running smoothly.  

Your pharmacist is an important ally in your health journey. Use their expertise to make managing your medications easier, safer and more affordable. 

See Evidence of Coverage for a complete description of plan benefits, exclusions, limitations and conditions of coverage. Plan features and availability may vary by service area. Participating health care providers are independent contractors and are neither agents nor employees of Allina Health | Aetna. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed, and provider network composition is subject to change. Aetna is part of the CVS Health® family of companies. This material is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice. Health information programs provide general health information and are not a substitute for diagnosis or treatment by a physician or other health care professional. Contact a health care professional with any questions or concerns about specific health care needs. Providers are independent contractors and are not agents of Aetna. Provider participation may change without notice. Aetna is not a provider of health care services and, therefore, cannot guarantee any results or outcomes. The availability of any particular provider cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. Information is believed to be accurate as of the production date; however, it is subject to change. For more information about Aetna plans, refer to our website. SilverSneakers is a registered trademark of Tivity Health, Inc. ©2026 Tivity Health, Inc. All rights reserved. The formulary and/or pharmacy network may change at any time. You will receive notice when necessary. The Allina Health | Aetna Medicare pharmacy network includes limited lower cost preferred pharmacies in: applicable areas. The lower costs advertised in our plan materials for these pharmacies may not be available at the pharmacy you use. For up-to-date information about our network pharmacies, including whether there are any lower-cost preferred pharmacies in your area, members please call the number on your ID card, non-members please call 1-855-338-7027 (TTY: 711) or consult the online pharmacy directory at AllinaHealthAetnaMedicare.com/pharmacyhelp. Note: This disclaimer is subject to change each quarter based on our network changes, so please keep posted on this and the areas with limited access. For CY 2026  

  • Rural Nebraska 
  • Rural North Dakota 
  • Suburban West Virginia 

Vendors offer Value-Added Items and Services (VAIS) at a discount that are not part of your plan’s benefits. You will pay the full cost of discounted services not covered under your plan

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